Technical production of nitric acid by Ostwald method

Nitric acid is prepared in large scale from ammonia and air (Fig.6.14).

Reactants

Pure dry ammonia (1 volume) and air (10 volumes)

Reactions

1) 1^st step - Catalytic oxidation of ammonia to form nitric oxide

2) 2^nd step - Oxidation of nitric oxide to nitrogen dioxide.

3) 3^rd step - Absorption of nitrogen dioxide in water to give nitric acid.

Catalyst

Platinum (for oxidation of )

Temperature

700^o - 800^oC